The big bribe

The number one rule in Mommyland is "never say never." Oh boy, have I learned that one. I "never" wanted to resort to bribing, preferring the much (professionally) lauded idea of natural consequences.

And then there was Ben.

And a tired, sick, pregnant Mommy.

And chocolate.

It started with the carseat. Benjamin has been doing that "stiff as a board" routine when I try to put him in the van. I'm not strong enough to force him down, and after 10 seconds or so I'm dizzy from the nausea and weak from the pregnancy. So out came the bribe. If he fusses, no chocolate. I keep a box of smarties in the van, and I'm holding his Easter eggs hostage for good behaviour.

But it's (sort of) starting to work. He sat in his chair and ate his whole lunch today. We have problems with him standing in his booster chair and it borders on dangerous. So in order to get his chocolate at the end of the meal, he had to stay seated and eat everything. He was so proud to display that empty plate for me. The car is still an issue. The fuss time seems to be diminishing, so maybe he's starting to associate the reward with the behaviour.

I just hope this doesn't end up being another parenting moment that works for the short term and then I kick myself later when I can't break the habit. Ah well, for the next 9 weeks at least, short term is all I can deal with.